Internet Horology Club 185
Old Military? WW. Comments Please

This topic can be found at:
https://ihc185.infopop.cc/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/9886009961/m/6843959977

September 12, 2013, 13:37
Mike Hodge
Old Military? WW. Comments Please
This maybe should have gone to the Military Forum but just to get it going. A Swiss WW that has some Radium? Burn in the old crystal. It is in a Swiss Sterling Silver case. It does run but I have no idea if it is unusual, rare, or junk.


September 12, 2013, 13:38
Mike Hodge
Back of case


September 12, 2013, 13:39
Mike Hodge
Movement and markings


September 13, 2013, 00:03
Peter Kaszubski
I would not call this one junk in silver case
looks good Mike.
September 13, 2013, 08:43
Gerald Zimmermann
Mike

A nice early wristwatch from the late 20's. Made by Avia Watch Co (Chaux de Fonds, since 1910) intented to the anglo-american customer. The swiss silver export mark (standing bear) was used pre 33.
As Peter said monometallic cases of all kind are fine to refinish. Cleaning, relume and a new strap would make a fine watch.

Please tell the diameter of the movement.

Regards
Gerald
September 13, 2013, 09:09
Mike Hodge
Gerald, thanks for the info. It is 29 mm in diameter and it does run but of course it needs oiling at the minimum.
September 13, 2013, 17:34
Ray Hallenbeck
I think the initials are for the Central Labor Council, Helena Montana...an affiliate of the AFL/CIO
September 13, 2013, 19:08
Mike Hodge
Thanks Ray, that does make sense.
September 13, 2013, 20:47
Jim Hester
Be careful of the radium paint. The zinc sulfide is fully burned, but the radium in it is still almost as powerful as the day it was made. The half-life of radium is 1,600 years.
September 13, 2013, 22:57
Mike Hodge
Thanks Jim. That's even older than Phil Sanchez! Warning heeded.
September 14, 2013, 08:11
Phillip Sanchez
Mike, For your information Radium and I are closely related. Smile
September 14, 2013, 10:44
Mike Hodge
Sorry Phil, I had NO IDEA you read this WW Forum Cool
September 14, 2013, 15:47
Phillip Sanchez
Mike it's a hard job but some one has to do it. Big Grin
September 14, 2013, 17:11
Gerald Zimmermann
Since I try to write english it's even harder Wink

Gerald